When to replace chainsaw file

CobyRupert · Aug 24, 2014

How many sharpenings does a chain saw file typically last?

When do you know it's time for a new? When it pushes too easy? When you've spun it many times and cleaned the burrs but it still seem to push "easy"?

Seems like the file wears more at the end of your back hand end where it probably is moving faster through the tooth than at the starting end? Maybe my imagination.

Do they usually last longer than the chain they're sharpening? 2 chains? 3?

Coyote machine · Aug 25, 2014

Hard to say- would depend on pressure used, how dull the chain was, how much material removed per pass, etc.

Buy a box of files at one time from your saw brand dealer or online, throw out dull ones when they no longer cut cleanly, and remember - how much wood would a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood?

CobyRupert · Aug 25, 2014

Coyote machine said:
......, and remember - how much wood would a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood?

Good question. I'm also curious on how much pine would a porcupine pork if a porcupine could pork pine?

(Maybe they do?)

jaotguy · Aug 25, 2014

if the "chain " was dull and work hardened, you might get 1-2 sharpenings from a file.

if you stop often and "touch up" the blade, the file should last a long time...

if the file slides easily and the chain isn't hardened , toss the file and get a new one....

Bluegill2 · Aug 25, 2014

When they lose that new cut feel I throw em out. Also, pulling the file back making contact with the tooth will dull em very quick.

Egon · Aug 25, 2014

jaotguy said:
if the "chain " was dull and work hardened, you might get 1-2 sharpenings from a file.

if you stop often and "touch up" the blade, the file should last a long time...

if the file slides easily and the chain isn't hardened , toss the file and get a new one....

Agreed and time to chuck the chain. Once they are overheated they are basically good for junk cutting.

Giles · Aug 25, 2014

I very seldom use a file since purchasing an Oregon grinder some time ago. When using a chain file, you should constantly turn so as to have even wear the entire length of the cutters. I mark a new file on the handle end with a marking pen and this helps. I have many worn files and use them on objects other then chain filing--like elongating a small hole.

turnkey4099 · Aug 25, 2014

Hard to describe but one gets used to recognizing when it is time. If the file "snagging" throw it out. I used to fight them, rotate, clean, etc. Nothing would clear the 'snag'.

It took me years to finally learn to throw dull files out instead of forcing them to cut. Turned a miserable job of sharpening saw chains into a quick rather pleasurable task. I use one of those clamp on guides that set all the angles. Time to do a 20" loop (5 strokes/tooth) is well under 10 minutes and that includes adjusting the chain tension, clamping saw in the vise, mounting the file guide.

Someone else said it "buy them by the dozen and throw away often'.

Harry K

jaotguy · Aug 26, 2014

Egon said:
Agreed and time to chuck the chain. Once they are overheated they are basically good for junk cutting.

I keep an cordless drill and a set of "stones" instead of files these days ... touch up is quicker, less effort and will tackle the work hardened cutters better ...